Hi Neighbour,

We're thrilled to share the latest edition of our "Meet the Denizens" series, where we showcase the incredible talents and contributions of our community members.

"Muddy hands, clear mind."

Introducing Anke, a Berlin-based artist known for her innovative projects.

There's a lot more to Anke than her artistic talent alone. She's committed to guiding you in discovering your inner creative genius through the medium of clay. Her workshops promote slowing down, embracing muddy hands, and immersing yourself in the captivating world of ceramics. Get ready to unlock the magic of creativity with Anke!

This Friday, as a part of Berlin Art Week, Anke has prepared a studio performance designed to captivate your senses. Later this month, she will be hosting a ceramics workshop at the Denizen House.

What was the best advice you've been given?

Choosing the best advice can be quite challenging, especially considering how impossible it is to remember them all! 😆 However, one of the most significant pieces of advice I currently carry with me is from my craniosacral therapist: the importance of finding moments of rest during our waking hours. Life can't be all about the two extremes of sleep or constant action. This wisdom is akin to the notion of walking slowly when you're in a hurry.

It's easy to get caught up in a day filled with a packed calendar and an extensive to-do list. During these bustling times, I constantly try to remind myself not only to move at a slower pace but also to embrace moments of doing absolutely nothing – all without a trace of guilt or self-judgment. It's in these moments of stillness that creativity often flourishes.

What is the last book you've read?

I'm currently in the middle of "Noch" by Benjamin von Stuckrad-Barre.

What is the city / country you wanna travel to and why?

I haven't had the opportunity to visit Japan yet, but it's at the top of my list of countries to explore. My interest extends beyond ceramics; I'm captivated by the traditional crafts that Japan has to offer. I'm particularly drawn to the idea of experiencing the unhurried pace of old Japan, or at least, how I envision it.

A journey to Japan would likely be followed by a visit to Korea. In the grand scheme of things, Korea significantly influenced Japanese ceramics. The prospect of collaborating with masters and having the chance to stay and learn from them greatly appeals to me.

What did you want to become when you were 5 years old?

For me, it was simple: an artist! 😊

What makes you happy?

Many things bring me happiness. It all begins with my daily walk to my studio, where I'm greeted by the sight of sunlight dancing through the trees, casting beautiful shadows on the cobblestones. The friendly greetings from neighbours warm my heart, and, of course, the hours spent in the studio, especially when I'm creating new artwork, fill me with joy. I'm also delighted that people and visitors appreciate the studio's peaceful and inspiring atmosphere. Knowing that I contribute meaningfully to the Kollwitzkiez neighbourhood brings me a deep sense of satisfaction.

Apart from my studio, there are numerous other sources of happiness in my life. A well-cooked meal, a restful night's sleep, the scent of basil, and a harmonious balance between time for self-reflection and connecting with others. As an artist, the opportunities to express myself creatively also play a significant role in my overall happiness.

What brought you to Denizen?

A friend of mine suggested that I open up my studio to people outside the ceramics world, as he admires the serene ambiance, distinctive character, and creative atmosphere it offers. During our discussion, we both agreed that creative individuals could benefit from the concept of working within a ceramic studio, even if they're primarily using their laptops. That's when Denizen emerged as the ideal platform.
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What do you like about Denizen?

Denizen offers an opportunity to enhance spaces and make experiences more accessible to people. I'm thrilled not only to have my studio featured on their platform but also to share my ceramic expertise through workshops with the Denizen House community.

As someone who values aesthetics, working in visually pleasing environments like the one at Eiswerk is of great importance to me. Nevertheless, Denizen goes beyond mere appearances; what I genuinely appreciate is their service-oriented approach and hospitality.

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If you'd like to learn more about Anke and her practices, or if you'd like to discuss books you've both read, please feel free to contact her through her website or simply invite her to join you for a coffee at the Denizen House. ☕

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Speak soon!

Cheers,

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The Denizen Team